As smart glasses increasingly integrate into daily routines for tasks like managing notifications and taking calls, safety concerns arise when users attempt to use them behind the wheel. While the Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses offer augmented reality capabilities, Meta has introduced a Driving Detection feature that leverages Audio Only mode to minimize distractions. When active, this function completely disables the visual display, effectively transforming the glasses into standard audio-enabled eyewear while the user operates a vehicle.
The feature is managed through the Meta AI app and utilizes internal sensors to identify when the wearer is in a moving car. Upon detection, the display turns off automatically. To configure this, users must open the Meta AI app on their paired smartphone, navigate to Settings, select their glasses, and access Device Settings. From there, they need to enable Audio Only and toggle Driving Detection to active. The system will subsequently manage the display state without further user intervention.
Meta may request access to the phone’s sensors during setup, as the feature relies on motion data from both the glasses and the mobile device. Once the wearer exits the vehicle, the display reactivates automatically. Users who prefer manual control can also invoke Audio Only mode via voice command by saying, “Hey Meta, turn on/off audio only.”
Meta explicitly states that the glasses are not designed for driving navigation. Current functionality supports only pedestrian wayfinding, lacking the high-speed interfaces, lane guidance, and real-time traffic updates required for highway travel. Drivers are advised to rely on smartphone GPS or built-in car navigation systems for directions.
Beyond safety, engaging Audio Only mode while driving can preserve battery life and reduce screen exposure. For additional details on the hardware, readers may consult Engadget’s comprehensive review of the Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses.
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